CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Cleveland Museum of Natural History announced that Harvey Webster, the longtime staff member who uses his mellifluous voice to educate the public and represent the institution, has been appointed Chief Wildlife Officer and Museum Ambassador.

The senior management position elevates the importance of Webster's work as a champion of the museum and in promoting the museum's wildlife collection as a basis for education.

"I can think of no other person who is more representative of our Museum's mission than Harvey Webster," Winner said in a news release. "He has dedicated his talents to fostering an appreciation for nature, biodiversity and wildlife."

Webster, who joined the museum's professional staff in 1974, and who has been the director of wildlife resources since 1991, will take a leading role in shaping the museum's culture.

He'll also forge partnerships with other institutions in Northeast Ohio, and oversee special projects in collaboration with the CEO, the release said.

The new role also expands Webster's leadership in designing new science education curricula involving the Museum's live animal specimens and the development of new wildlife exhibits, the statement said.

"I am very appreciative for this opportunity," Webster said, according to the release. "I have a deep, abiding and lifelong passion for this great institution and all that it represents.

"In this expanded role, I hope to help promote the timeliness, relevance and importance of its inspiring mission and deepen its impact on the community and in the region," he said.

The museum said that Webster's relationship with the institution "spans his entire life." It said that Webster feels he grew up at the Museum, where he frequently visited with his mother, a longtime staff member and trustee.

He also and served in volunteer roles as a student, an archaeological field assistant, a paleontological field assistant and specimen preparator, the museum said.